Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for providing continuous wireless communication service, comprising: transmitting respective UniCast beacons from a first wireless termination point (WTP) to a plurality of user equipment (UE) stations, each UniCast beacon including a respective basic service set identifier (BSSID) associated with its respective UE station; transmitting a first UniCast beacon from the first WTP to a first UE station of the plurality of UE stations; after transmitting the first UniCast beacon to the first UE station, handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to a second WTP; and transmitting a second UniCast beacon from the second WTP to the first UE station, each of the first and second UniCast beacons including a common first BSSID.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing seamless handoff between wireless termination points (WTPs) to maintain continuous service for user equipment (UE) stations. The problem solved is ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during handoffs, which traditionally disrupt service due to changes in network identifiers. The method involves transmitting UniCast beacons from multiple WTPs to UE stations, where each beacon includes a basic service set identifier (BSSID) uniquely associated with its intended UE station. A first WTP sends a UniCast beacon to a first UE station, establishing communication. When the first UE station is handed off to a second WTP, the second WTP continues transmitting UniCast beacons to the same UE station. Both the first and second beacons include the same BSSID, ensuring the UE station recognizes the second WTP as part of the same network, thus avoiding service interruption. This approach allows the UE station to seamlessly transition between WTPs without requiring reauthentication or reconfiguration, maintaining continuous wireless communication service. The method can be extended to multiple UE stations and WTPs, with each UE station receiving beacons containing its unique BSSID from the serving WTP.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting a third UniCast beacon from the first WTP to a second UE station of the plurality of UE stations, the third UniCast beacon including a second BSSID that is different from the first BSSID.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing beacon transmissions in a wireless local area network (WLAN) environment. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently distribute beacon signals to multiple user equipment (UE) stations while minimizing interference and optimizing network performance. The method involves a first wireless transmission point (WTP) transmitting a first UniCast beacon to a first UE station, where the beacon includes a first Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) that identifies the network. Additionally, the WTP transmits a second UniCast beacon to a second UE station, where this beacon includes a second BSSID that is different from the first BSSID. This allows the WTP to serve multiple UE stations with distinct BSSIDs, enabling better network management, load balancing, and interference reduction. The use of UniCast beacons ensures that each UE station receives tailored beacon signals, improving signal quality and reducing unnecessary broadcasts. The method enhances network efficiency by dynamically assigning different BSSIDs to different UE stations, allowing for more flexible and scalable wireless network operations.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein each of the first UniCast beacon and the second UniCast beacon is a Wi-Fi-based beacon.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for improving beacon transmission in networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and unreliability of traditional beacon broadcasting, which can lead to poor network performance and connectivity issues. The solution involves using UniCast beacons, which are individually addressed to specific devices rather than broadcast to all devices in range. This approach reduces unnecessary transmissions, conserves bandwidth, and enhances overall network efficiency. The method includes transmitting a first UniCast beacon from a first access point to a first device and a second UniCast beacon from a second access point to a second device. These beacons are Wi-Fi-based, meaning they operate within the Wi-Fi protocol framework, ensuring compatibility with existing wireless networks. The UniCast transmission ensures that each beacon is directed only to the intended recipient, minimizing interference and improving signal quality. The system may also include additional steps such as determining the location of devices, selecting appropriate access points for beacon transmission, and dynamically adjusting beacon parameters based on network conditions. This method is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where traditional broadcast beacons would cause excessive congestion and degradation of service.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP at least partially in response to a signal strength of the second WTP at the first UE station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing handoffs between wireless termination points (WTPs) in a network. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and reliable handoff of user equipment (UE) stations between WTPs to maintain stable connectivity. The method involves monitoring signal strength between a UE station and multiple WTPs to determine optimal handoff conditions. When the signal strength of a second WTP at the first UE station meets certain criteria, the system initiates a handoff from the first WTP to the second WTP. This ensures the UE station remains connected to the strongest available WTP, minimizing disruptions. The handoff process may involve transferring session data and network resources from the first WTP to the second WTP to maintain seamless communication. The method may also include additional criteria for handoff, such as network load balancing or UE mobility patterns, to further optimize performance. The invention improves reliability and efficiency in wireless networks by dynamically adjusting connections based on real-time signal conditions.
5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising reducing a transmit power of the first WTP for data frames addressed to the first UE station, while handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving handoff procedures between wireless termination points (WTPs) and user equipment (UE) stations. The problem addressed is maintaining reliable communication during handoffs while optimizing resource usage. The method involves a handoff process where a first WTP is communicating with a first UE station. During handoff to a second WTP, the transmit power of the first WTP for data frames addressed to the first UE station is reduced. This reduction helps mitigate interference and conserves power while ensuring the handoff proceeds smoothly. The method may also include the first WTP receiving a handoff request from the first UE station, the first WTP sending a handoff request to the second WTP, and the first WTP receiving a handoff response from the second WTP. The handoff response may indicate whether the second WTP has accepted the handoff. The method ensures seamless transition of the UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP while optimizing power usage and reducing interference in the wireless network.
6. A method for providing continuous wireless communication service, comprising: transmitting a first UniCast beacon from a first wireless termination point (WTP) to a first user equipment (UE) station; after transmitting the first UniCast beacon to the first UE station, handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to a second WTP; transmitting a second UniCast beacon from the second WTP to the first UE station, each of the first and second UniCast beacons including a common first basic service set identifier (BSSID); transmitting a first signal strength table from the first WTP to a first access controller, the first signal strength table including signal strength of one or more UE stations at the first WTP; and transmitting a second signal strength table from the second WTP to the first access controller, the second signal strength table including signal strength of one or more UE stations at the second WTP.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for maintaining continuous service during handoffs between wireless access points. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity for user devices as they move between different wireless termination points (WTPs) in a network. Traditional handoff methods often disrupt service due to delays in reauthentication or signal degradation. The method involves transmitting a first UniCast beacon from a first WTP to a user equipment (UE) station. After the first beacon is sent, the UE station is handed off from the first WTP to a second WTP. The second WTP then transmits a second UniCast beacon to the UE station, with both beacons containing a common basic service set identifier (BSSID). This ensures the UE station recognizes the second WTP as part of the same network, preventing disruptions during handoff. Additionally, the first and second WTPs transmit signal strength tables to an access controller, containing signal strength data for one or more UE stations. This allows the access controller to monitor signal quality and optimize handoff decisions based on real-time data. The system improves reliability and reduces latency during transitions between access points.
7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP at least partially in response to data contained in the first and second signal strength tables.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing handoffs between wireless termination points (WTPs) in a network. The problem addressed is optimizing handoff decisions for user equipment (UE) stations to improve connectivity and reduce disruptions during transitions between WTPs. The method involves maintaining signal strength tables for multiple WTPs, where each table records signal strength measurements for one or more UE stations. These tables are used to determine when a handoff is necessary. The handoff process includes selecting a target WTP for the UE station based on the signal strength data, ensuring the target WTP has sufficient resources, and transferring the UE station's connection from the current WTP to the target WTP. The handoff is triggered at least partially in response to the signal strength data in the tables, which helps ensure the UE station maintains a stable connection. The method also includes monitoring signal strength for multiple UE stations and updating the tables accordingly. If a handoff is initiated, the system verifies that the target WTP can support the additional load before proceeding. This approach improves network efficiency by reducing unnecessary handoffs and ensuring smoother transitions for UE stations.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising using the first access controller to manage the first UE station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing user equipment (UE) stations in a network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure control of UE stations, particularly in scenarios where multiple access controllers are involved. The invention provides a method for managing a first UE station using a first access controller, where the first access controller is responsible for handling communication and control functions for the UE station. This includes tasks such as authentication, authorization, and resource allocation to ensure secure and reliable connectivity. The method may also involve coordinating with other access controllers to maintain seamless operation across different network segments or domains. The first access controller dynamically adjusts its operations based on network conditions, UE station requirements, and security policies to optimize performance and resource utilization. This approach enhances network efficiency, reduces latency, and improves overall system reliability. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple UE stations need to be managed simultaneously, such as in 5G or IoT networks, where efficient resource allocation and security are critical.
9. The method of claim 6 , further comprising: transmitting the first signal strength table from the first WTP to a second access controller different from the first access controller; transmitting the second signal strength table from the second WTP to the second access controller; and at the second access controller, initiating serving of the first UE station by the second WTP at least partially in response to data contained in the first and second signal strength tables.
This invention relates to wireless network management, specifically improving handover decisions for user equipment (UE) stations in a wireless local area network (WLAN) environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate handover decisions between wireless termination points (WTPs) to ensure seamless connectivity and optimal performance for UEs. The method involves multiple WTPs, each associated with an access controller, collecting signal strength data from UEs within their coverage areas. A first WTP generates a first signal strength table containing signal strength measurements of a first UE station. Similarly, a second WTP generates a second signal strength table for the same UE station. These tables are transmitted to a second access controller, which is different from the first access controller managing the first WTP. The second access controller uses the data from both tables to initiate a handover of the UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP. This handover decision is based on the signal strength information, ensuring the UE is served by the WTP providing the strongest or most reliable signal. The method enhances network efficiency by leveraging signal strength data across different access controllers to make informed handover decisions, reducing connection drops and improving overall network performance.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising changing a managing access controller of the first UE station from the first access controller to the second access controller, before handing off the first UE station from the first WTP to the second WTP.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing access controllers during handoffs between wireless termination points (WTPs) in a network. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless and secure transitions of user equipment (UE) stations between different WTPs while maintaining proper access control. The method involves a system where a first UE station is initially connected to a first WTP, which is managed by a first access controller. Before the handoff process begins, the managing access controller for the first UE station is changed from the first access controller to a second access controller. This change ensures that the second access controller is responsible for managing the UE station's access during and after the handoff. The handoff itself involves transferring the UE station from the first WTP to a second WTP, which is managed by the second access controller. This approach prevents disruptions in service and maintains consistent access control policies during the transition. The method may also include additional steps such as authenticating the UE station with the second access controller before the handoff is completed, ensuring that the UE station meets the necessary security and access requirements before the transfer. This ensures that the handoff process is both efficient and secure, minimizing downtime and potential security vulnerabilities.
11. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: operating the first WTP on a first wireless channel; operating the second WTP on a second wireless channel different from the first wireless channel; and including a channel switch announcement in the second UniCast beacon, the channel switch announcement announcing a change from the first wireless channel to the second wireless channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing wireless transmission points (WTPs) in a network to improve channel utilization and reduce interference. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of wireless channels in multi-WTP environments, where devices may experience connectivity issues or performance degradation due to overlapping or conflicting channel assignments. The method involves operating a first WTP on a first wireless channel and a second WTP on a second, distinct wireless channel to minimize interference. To enhance coordination between the WTPs, a second UniCast beacon is transmitted, which includes a channel switch announcement. This announcement signals a change from the first wireless channel to the second wireless channel, allowing devices to adapt their communication accordingly. The UniCast beacon ensures that the channel switch is communicated directly to relevant devices, improving reliability and reducing disruptions. The method may also involve additional steps such as detecting channel conditions, determining optimal channel assignments, and synchronizing the channel switch across multiple WTPs to maintain seamless connectivity. The overall goal is to dynamically optimize channel usage while minimizing service interruptions.
12. A method for providing individualized wireless communication service, comprising: transmitting a first UniCast beacon from a first wireless termination point (WTP) to a first user equipment (UE) station; and transmitting a second UniCast beacon from the first WTP to a second UE station, wherein: the first UniCast beacon includes a respective first basic service set identifier (BSSID) associated with the first UE station, and the second UniCast beacon includes a respective second BSSID associated with the second UE station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for providing individualized wireless communication service to multiple user equipment (UE) stations. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between a wireless termination point (WTP) and multiple UE stations, ensuring each station receives tailored service while maintaining network security and performance. The method involves transmitting individualized UniCast beacons from a WTP to multiple UE stations. A first UniCast beacon is sent to a first UE station, containing a first basic service set identifier (BSSID) uniquely associated with that station. Similarly, a second UniCast beacon is transmitted to a second UE station, containing a second BSSID uniquely associated with it. Each beacon is tailored to the specific UE station, ensuring that only the intended recipient processes the beacon, enhancing security and reducing interference. By using UniCast beacons with unique BSSIDs for each UE station, the method enables personalized communication while maintaining network efficiency. This approach prevents unauthorized access and ensures that each UE station receives only the relevant signals, improving overall system performance. The technique is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices operate in close proximity, such as dense urban areas or large indoor spaces.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the second BSSID is different from the first BSSID.
A wireless communication system addresses the challenge of managing multiple network connections efficiently in environments where devices need to switch between different access points (APs) while maintaining seamless connectivity. The system includes a first access point (AP) with a first Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) and a second AP with a second BSSID. The second BSSID is distinct from the first BSSID, allowing the system to differentiate between the two APs. A wireless device connects to the first AP using the first BSSID and, when necessary, transitions to the second AP using the second BSSID. The system ensures that the wireless device can maintain an active connection while switching between APs, minimizing disruptions. The method involves detecting a need for the transition, such as signal degradation or load balancing, and facilitating the switch by associating the device with the second BSSID. This approach improves network reliability and performance in dynamic environments where multiple APs are deployed. The distinct BSSIDs enable clear identification and management of each AP, ensuring smooth handoffs and reducing connection drops. The system is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks, such as enterprise or public Wi-Fi deployments, where seamless roaming is critical.
14. The method of claim 12 , wherein the second BSSID and the first BSSID have a common value.
This invention relates to wireless network communication, specifically improving network identification and management in environments with multiple access points. The problem addressed is the complexity of managing multiple Basic Service Set Identifiers (BSSIDs) in a network, which can lead to inefficiencies in device association and network performance. The invention describes a method for handling BSSIDs in a wireless network where multiple access points are present. A first BSSID is assigned to a first access point, and a second BSSID is assigned to a second access point. The method involves configuring the second BSSID to have the same value as the first BSSID, effectively allowing both access points to share a common BSSID. This configuration simplifies network management by reducing the number of distinct BSSIDs that devices need to recognize and associate with, while still maintaining separate access points for load balancing or other operational purposes. The method may also include steps to ensure that devices can distinguish between the access points despite the shared BSSID, such as using additional identifiers or network parameters. This approach enhances network scalability and reduces the overhead associated with managing multiple BSSIDs in dense or complex wireless environments. The invention is particularly useful in enterprise or large-scale deployments where multiple access points must operate under a unified network identity.
15. The method of claim 12 , further comprising associating each of the first and second BSSIDs with a common service set identifier (SSID).
A wireless communication system addresses the challenge of managing multiple access points (APs) in a network while maintaining seamless connectivity for client devices. The system uses distinct basic service set identifiers (BSSIDs) for different APs to enable load balancing and optimize network performance. Each BSSID is linked to a common service set identifier (SSID), allowing client devices to connect to the network without needing to manually switch between different SSIDs. This approach simplifies network management and improves user experience by ensuring consistent connectivity across multiple APs. The system dynamically assigns BSSIDs to APs based on network conditions, such as traffic load or signal strength, to enhance efficiency and reliability. By associating multiple BSSIDs with a single SSID, the system reduces the complexity of network configuration and ensures that client devices can roam between APs without disruptions. This method is particularly useful in environments with high device density, such as enterprise networks or public Wi-Fi hotspots, where seamless connectivity is critical. The system may also include additional features, such as security protocols or quality-of-service (QoS) management, to further optimize network performance.
16. The method of claim 12 , further comprising associating first and second types of wireless communication service with the first and second BSSIDs, respectively, the first and second types of wireless communication service having at least one differing wireless service characteristic.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing multiple Basic Service Set Identifiers (BSSIDs) to provide differentiated wireless communication services. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently allocate and manage distinct wireless services over a single access point or network infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and user experience based on varying service requirements. The method involves assigning first and second BSSIDs to a wireless access point or network, where each BSSID is linked to a different type of wireless communication service. These services differ in at least one wireless service characteristic, such as bandwidth, latency, security protocols, or quality of service (QoS) parameters. By associating distinct BSSIDs with different service types, the system can dynamically allocate resources, prioritize traffic, or enforce service-specific policies. This approach allows for flexible network management, enabling the provision of multiple service tiers (e.g., high-speed data for premium users and standard service for general users) without requiring separate physical infrastructure. The method ensures efficient resource utilization while maintaining service differentiation, improving overall network performance and user satisfaction.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the at least one differing wireless service characteristic comprises a differing quality of service (QoS) characteristic.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing wireless service characteristics to optimize performance. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust wireless service parameters to meet varying quality of service (QoS) requirements while maintaining efficient resource utilization. The method involves monitoring and modifying at least one wireless service characteristic to improve communication performance. The key innovation is the ability to adjust a differing QoS characteristic, such as latency, bandwidth, or reliability, based on real-time network conditions or user demands. This ensures that the wireless service adapts to different scenarios, such as high-traffic periods or critical data transmissions, without compromising overall system efficiency. The method may involve analyzing current network performance metrics, such as signal strength, interference levels, or data throughput, to determine the optimal QoS adjustments. These adjustments can include prioritizing certain types of traffic, allocating additional bandwidth, or modifying transmission protocols to enhance reliability. The system may also incorporate machine learning or predictive algorithms to anticipate QoS needs and preemptively adjust settings. By dynamically adjusting QoS characteristics, the invention ensures that wireless services remain robust and responsive under varying conditions, improving user experience and system reliability. This approach is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices compete for limited resources, such as urban areas with high network congestion or industrial settings requiring low-latency communication.
18. The method of claim 12 , wherein each of the first UniCast beacon and the second UniCast beacon is a Wi-Fi-based beacon.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for transmitting and receiving unicast beacons in a network environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable beacon transmission to ensure proper device discovery, synchronization, and communication in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where multiple devices must coordinate their operations. The method involves transmitting a first unicast beacon from a first device to a second device and a second unicast beacon from the second device to the first device. These beacons are used to establish and maintain communication between the devices. The beacons may include synchronization information, network configuration data, or other relevant parameters to facilitate communication. The method ensures that both devices can detect and respond to each other's presence, enabling seamless interaction. In this specific embodiment, both the first and second unicast beacons are Wi-Fi-based, meaning they utilize Wi-Fi protocols for transmission. This allows the devices to leverage existing Wi-Fi infrastructure for beaconing, reducing the need for additional hardware or proprietary protocols. The Wi-Fi-based beacons may be transmitted at regular intervals or triggered by specific events, such as device discovery or network changes. The use of Wi-Fi ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and networks, enhancing interoperability and reliability. The method may also include error handling mechanisms to ensure that beacon transmission and reception are robust, even in challenging wireless environments.
Unknown
January 19, 2021
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